a small blackboard; all
in great good-humor over something.

"I am requested to announce," called out the steward in a high
"lecture-hall voice," as Dwight named it, "that all those present who
wish to pitch gromets are invited to join the game. Each side will
select a captain; Huri and Tegeloo, here, will pick up the rings that
go astray; I will chalk up the tally on this blackboard, and after the
game is over the persons showing the biggest and smallest scores shall
be given prizes by the captains of the winning and losing teams. Speak
up for your captains, please!"

"Why not have the twin sisters?" called out Mr. Lawrence, and at the
same instant a voice proposed, "Mrs. Campbell for one!"

But this suggestion was drowned in a shout of applause.

"Yes, yes, let it be the twins--the captain's daughters!" and so it was
decided.

Blushing and beautiful, the girls stood up opposite each other, and
began calling up their teams.

"Mrs. Vanderhoff," cried Hope.

"Lady Moreham," said Faith.

"Mrs. Poinsett."

"Mrs. Windemere."

"Miss Vanderhoff.

"Miss Windemere."

"Oh but see--see here!" laughingly protested Mr. Lawrence. "Is this
fair play to us men? I want to join this game somehow, if--"

"Mr. Lawrence!" shouted Hope archly, showing her pretty teeth and
dimples.

"Mr. Traveler!" quickly added Faith, only of course she gave the man's
own distinguished name.

And so they proceeded, while, quite without intention but with no less
offense, Mrs. Campbell and the young attache were not called until the
very last.

He sprang up eagerly enough, but she barely glanced around.

"Thanks," she drawled, "but it is too warm to play; don't you think so,
Mr. Allyne?"

Now, the young fellow did not think so, by any means, but he felt it
would be rude to leave the lady alone, and besides he would make an odd
one on Faith's side. So he sank back into his chair again with a
reluctant, "Much obliged, but I'll look on a while," and the game
proceeded without them.

It was rather warm work, but luckily a breeze had arisen which somewhat
cooled their flushed cheeks. Presently the captain strolled along and
stood near, to watch the players, laughing silently as he noted the
awkward work they made of it.

"Why don't you join us, Captain?" cried Mrs. Vanderhoff. "Come, Hope,
call up your father," but Faith returned quickly,

"No, indeed! Papa can bucket it every time. It wouldn't be fair to
our side at all."